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All Mahindra born EVs to get Google Gemini by January 2027

Posted on August 27, 2026August 27, 2026 by admin

Mahindra has announced that its electric vehicle line-up will get Google’s Gemini AI assistant by January 2027. “From 1st January 2027, Google Gemini will go live on all other cars, including the original BE 6. That’s the advantage of MAIA architecture,” said R Velusamy, president, Automotive Business, Mahindra and Mahindra, in an interview with Autocar India. Additionally, other software-defined features that debuted on the BE 6 Sporteq will roll out to its existing portfolio in phases from January 2027.

Which software-defined features will the existing line-up get?

The recently introduced BE 6 Sporteq gets Google Gemini from day one, and all upcoming models will also have this feature. Meanwhile, Mahindra’s existing line-up – the XEV 9e, XEV 9S and the older BE 6 – will receive it via an over-the-air (OTA) update by January 2027. Essentially, these vehicles will now get the BE 6 Sporteq’s ‘TEQ’ suite of features, and below is a list of them.

1. TEQ_Talk (Google Gemini)

Mahindra’s in-car MAIA assistant is now powered by Google Gemini, enabling conversational AI features. The brand says it uses 17 specialised AI agents to facilitate natural interactions and supports over 100 core functions and 48 applications, including navigation, entertainment, vehicle controls, general knowledge and more.

2. TEQ_Secure

This suite brings Secure 360 Pro, which basically lets you keep an eye on your car through its 360-degree camera system and dashcam. With Mahindra’s Me4U app, users can check live footage and recordings, activate audio relay and track their vehicle. There’s also a digital car key ecosystem across smartphones, smartwatches and NFC key cards. Additionally, cars with a passenger display also come equipped with a parental lock feature.

3. TEQ_Me

TEQ_Me brings the user profile with an auto-detection feature that instantly adjusts your vehicle settings, including seat and mirror position, climate control and infotainment preferences, head-up display and drive modes, according to the selected user profile.

4. TEQ_Drive

The TEQ_Drive suite brings several driving features to Mahindra electric SUVs. A custom mode allows users to select and individually fine-tune the drive, suspension and steering modes. There’s also a drift mode that allows “controlled drifting in suitable conditions” by disabling the vehicle’s ESP completely, which wasn’t possible before.

Moreover, users can now get additional range at zero percent charge with the Revive mode to reach the nearest charger. It essentially adds up to 13km of range, with the Revive SOS mode further adding up to 11km of range during emergencies. The latter can be used only five times in the vehicle’s lifetime. Lastly, Tribe Drive lets you track the locations of your friends and family who also own Mahindra electric SUVs on road trips.

5. TEQ_Play

This mainly covers in-car entertainment features such as gaming, with support for up to four Bluetooth-enabled controllers along with a karaoke mode. Meanwhile, users can privately stream in-car audio with compatible Bluetooth devices via the private audio feature. Additionally, the ‘GrooveMe Party’ feature syncs the vehicle’s interior and exterior lights with the music playing, which is a cool party trick.

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Ather details Konarc durability tests ahead of August 29 launch

Posted on August 27, 2026August 27, 2026 by admin

Outside image of Ather's testing facility, the Juggernaut

As we know, Ather’s first scooter based on the EL platform, Konarc, is gearing up to launch on August 29, at their annual community day. We had learned earlier that the Konarc will get metal body panels and few other details about the platform. Now, Ather has detailed the durability tests they’ve conducted on the Konarc to ensure that it’s built robustly.

Tested at The Juggernaut, Ather’s in-house testing ground
Some of the tests include drop tests, flood simulations, and vibration testing

Robust testing in tough conditions

With a 1 lakh km condensed riding cycle

We’re now aware that Ather is looking to position the Konarc as their first mass market EV and as such, they claim to have tested it far beyond what a normal ride would demand at The Juggernaut, the brand’s in-house testing ground. Posted on the brand’s Instagram page, some of the different tests include drop tests, load testing, shaking, vibrating, compressing one lakh kilometres of riding into an accelerated cycle. To take things up a notch, scenarios like heavy rains, deep water wades, floods were also simulated.

Front right quarter image of the Ather EL01 concept — EL01 concept used for representative purpose

Beyond these admittedly robust testing scenarios, the video also shows the Konarc undergoing typical durability tests for parts like the brakes, suspension, stands, and switches. The video also further substantiates previously known information like the steel chassis, metal body panels, a swingarm mounted motor, a 14-inch front wheel and a 12-inch rear wheel. We should get to know exactly what the Konarc can do on August 29 with more insights and information into the scooter.

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Yamaha R2 colours image gallery

Posted on August 27, 2026August 27, 2026 by admin

Yamaha has finally launched the YZF-R2, the much awaited follow-up to the YZF-R15. This marks the company’s brand-new launch in a really long time. The R2 gets an all-new platform with a 204cc engine. It continues to be a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine as seen on the R15 but makes 26.5hp at 10,000rpm and 19.3Nm at 8,000rpm. The valves are coated with DLC (diamond-like carbon) coating, a feature seen on the erstwhile flagship YZF-R1.

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Hyundai confirms next-gen Creta and i10 for India

Posted on August 27, 2026August 27, 2026 by admin

Hyundai confirms next-gen Creta and i10 for India

At its 2026 CEO Investor Day, Hyundai formally announced that it will bring next-gen versions of the Creta midsize SUV and i10 hatchback to India before 2030. We’ve known for quite some time that a new-gen Creta is in the works – test mules have been spied in India too – and we even reported on the next-gen i10’s launch timeline back in 2024.

Next-gen Hyundai Creta

The new Creta is likely to ride on the same K3 platform that underpins the second-gen Kia Seltos. Test mules of the next-gen Creta indicate that the SUV will grow in size and sport boxier proportions, while the interior is expected to get a fresh design, Hyundai’s new Pleos Connect infotainment interface, and an enhanced feature set.

Under the bonnet, the new Creta is anticipated to carry over the existing model’s 115hp 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol, 160hp 1.5-litre direct-injection turbo-petrol, and 116hp 1.5-litre diesel engines, along with their respective gearbox options. In addition to those, Hyundai is likely to introduce a strong-hybrid powertrain for the next-gen Creta, which could be based on the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine.

Third-gen Hyundai Creta test mule. Image credit: Raspberry via Autospy.net

We expect the third-gen Creta to launch sometime in 2027, possibly in the second half of the year. The current-gen Creta was first launched in 2020 and received a major facelift in 2024. However, with the recent barrage of all-new midsize SUV rivals like the Tata Sierra, Renault Duster, Nissan Tekton, and the aforementioned second-gen Seltos, the Creta is due a generational update.

Next-gen Hyundai i10

Details are scarce about the next-gen i10, but hatchback could make the switch to a new platform. Thorough redesigns for the exterior and interior, along with a bolstered list of features, are expected. As for engine options, the new i10 is expected to use the current model’s 1.2-litre naturally aspirated engine, which is available in 83hp petrol and 69hp CNG guises. Manual and AMT gearbox options are also anticipated to be retained.

Current Hyundai Grand i10 Nios. Image used for representation only.

According to our prior report, the next-gen i10 is likely to launch in India by late 2027, which would mark a gap of around eight years following the arrival of the current Grand i10 Nios in 2019. More significantly, the next-gen i10 will reinforce Hyundai’s presence in the small-car segment, which has seen renewed interest following the 2025 GST cuts.

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Yamaha R2 launched at Rs 2.30 lakh

Posted on August 27, 2026August 27, 2026 by admin

Yamaha has finally launched the YZF-R2, the much awaited follow-up to the YZF-R15. This marks the company’s brand-new launch in a really long time. Pre-bookings had already opened for Rs 10,000 with the R2 being added to the sportbike line-up. The R15 will also continue to be on sale alongside the MT-15 and the XSR 155.

Yamaha’s brand-new Indian launch in a long time
Powered by a 204cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine
Makes slightly more power than rivals

Yamaha R2: What’s new from the R15?

Brand new engine and multiple new features

The R2 gets an all-new platform with a brand-new 204cc engine. It continues to be a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine as seen on the R15 but makes 26.5hp at 10,000rpm and 19.3Nm at 8,000rpm. However, it comes with a DOHC setup as opposed to SOHC on the R15, and it misses out on Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) that the 155cc engine is known for. The valves on the R2 are coated with DLC (diamond-like carbon), also seen on the erstwhile flagship YZF-R1. Yamaha reports a seat height of 810mm and a kerb weight of 149kg, making the R2 the lightest of its segment. In addition to the significant weight advantage, the R2 also makes slightly more power and similar torque to its rivals, KTM RC 200 and Hero Karizma XMR.

Yamaha YZF-R2: Features and variants

Three variants in a Rs 23,000 range

Yamaha is looking to further sweeten the deal with features like ride-by-wire throttle which enables three ride modes, assist and slipper clutch, 37mm USD forks, and dual-channel ABS as standard. It continues to have features like a 5-inch TFT dash and Traction control, all seen on the R15 M. The second variant steps it up by offering a segment-first bi-directional quickshifter and body coloured alloy wheels. The range topping R2 M variant adds preload adjustable front and rear suspension, adjustable brake and clutch levers, faux-suede seat, and a smart keyless system. All three variants get their own distinct colours.

Yamaha has announced that the YZF-R2 will be exclusively available through their Blue Square network. The R2 starts at Rs 2.30 lakh for the base variant and Rs 2.53 lakh for the top of the line M variant; both prices are ex-showroom, Delhi. Pre-bookings are already open, with deliveries starting mid-September.

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Mercedes-Benz reveals long-wheelbase GLE L in China

Posted on August 26, 2026August 26, 2026 by admin

Mercedes-Benz reveals long-wheelbase GLE L in China

Mercedes-Benz has revealed the long-wheelbase version of the GLE SUV, called the GLE L, at the 2026 Chengdu Auto Show in China. Currently built in China, the Mercedes-Benz GLE L has a 120mm longer wheelbase than the standard-wheelbase model and is offered with two turbo-petrol engine options.

Engine options include 2.0L 4-cyl turbo-petrol and 3.0L 6-cyl turbo-petrol mills
Gets a boss mode feature that tilts the front passenger seat by 10.91 degrees
Also features new rear seat entertainment screens and a China-specific AI assistant

Mercedes-Benz GLE L: All you need to know

Gets a new boss mode and rear entertainment screens

What’s new is a boss mode feature, which tilts the front passenger seat by 10.91 degrees for enhanced rear-seat comfort. Mercedes states that this feature is derived from the more opulent Maybach GLS. The GLE L also gets new rear seat entertainment screens and an indigenous AI assistant.

Offers two turbo-petrol engines, which are the same as the standard-wheelbase model

Mercedes-Benz will offer the GLE L in two trim levels: 350 L 4Matic and 450 L 4Matic, with the same turbo-petrol engine options as the standard-wheelbase model. The ‘350’ has a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine producing 258hp and 400Nm, while the ‘450’ has a 3.0-litre inline-six turbo-petrol engine that produces 381hp and 560Nm. Both the engines are available with a 45V mild-hybrid assist and are mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels (AWD).

Notably, the standard-wheelbase GLE is also offered in a ‘580’ version with a 537hp, 4-litre twin-turbo V8, a plug-in-hybrid ‘450e’, and two diesel versions: 350d and 450d.

Everything else is similar to the standard-wheelbase model

Save for the additional wheelbase and redesigned alloy wheels, there is no difference in how the Mercedes-Benz GLE LWB looks compared to the standard-wheelbase model. It continues with a gloss-black grille with a chrome surround and a plethora of tristar elements, and the same dual-barrel headlights with tristar-shaped LED DRLs. The rear design is also identical, with wraparound taillights sporting triangular LED elements, joined by a black trim and dual exhaust tips.

The interior design of the China-spec GLE L is identical to the standard-wheelbase SUV. It features three 12.3-inch screens on the dashboard, one each for the instrumentation, infotainment and front passenger entertainment, and a 3-spoke steering wheel with touch-enabled buttons and physical rocker and roller toggles.

There is no word from Mercedes-Benz about the long-wheelbase GLE’s India launch. The manufacturer offers the E-Class and the V-Class in their respective long-wheelbase avatars in the country. Moreover, there is a growing interest in long-wheelbase cars in the luxury segment, which could make the GLE L an interesting proposition in India. Interestingly, the GLE’s prime rival, the BMW X5, is slated to launch in India in 2027 in a long-wheelbase avatar.

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Which variant of the MG Hector Tomahawk EV should you buy?

Posted on August 26, 2026August 26, 2026 by admin

The MG Hector Tomahawk EV is a three-row SUV available in Excite, Exclusive and Essence trims. All three use the same battery pack and electric motor, with the main differences being the features and seating layouts on offer. If you’re considering the Hector Tomahawk EV, here’s a detailed look at which variant makes the most sense.

MG Hector Tomahawk EV: Prices, powertrain specs

Trim	BaaS price (Rs)	Non-BaaS price (Rs)	Difference (Rs)
Excite 7 seater	13.99 lakh + 4.9 per km*	19.5 lakh	5.51 lakh
Exclusive 7 seater	15.99 lakh + 4.9 per km*	22 lakh	6.01 lakh
Essence 5 seater	16.99 lakh + 4.9 per km*	23 lakh	6.01 lakh
Essence 7 seater	17.49 lakh + 4.9 per km*	23.5 lakh	6.01 lakh

*Battery rental fee.

The MG Hector Tomahawk EV, like all MG EVs sold in India (excluding the M9 and the Cyberster), is available with a Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) scheme that lowers the upfront cost. Notably, buyers opting for BaaS have to pay a battery rental fee of Rs 4.9 per kilometre. For the Hector Tomahawk EV, the scheme reduces the upfront price by up to Rs 6.01 lakh.

All trims feature a 69.2kWh battery pack, which powers a 204hp, 310Nm electric motor mounted on the front axle. The sprint from 0-100kph takes 8.2 seconds. On the Modified Indian Driving Cycle (MIDC), the SUV can go up to 517km on a single charge. As per MG, it takes about 35 minutes to charge the battery from 30 percent to 80 percent with a 90kW DC fast charger. With a 7.4kW AC unit, the carmaker claims a charging time of about 12.5 hours for a 10 percent to 100 percent top-up.

MG Hector Tomahawk EV: Features

Excite

Rs 19.5 lakh

Six airbags
Electronic stability program (ESP)
Traction control system (TCS)
Hill hold control
ABS and EBD
All four disc brakes
Electronic parking brake with auto hold
TPMS
Front and rear defogger
Rear wiper and washer
Three-point seatbelts for all seats
Reverse parking camera
8.8-inch driver’s display
12.8-inch touchscreen
Wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay
AI voice assistant
OTA updates
Six speakers
Steering-mounted controls
Leatherette seat upholstery
Pro Pet mode
Eco, Normal, Sports, Custom drive modes
Powered adjustment for front seats
Push button start/stop system
Powered ORVMs with auto fold and integrated turn indicators
Tilt and telescopic adjustment for steering wheel
Cruise control
Slide function for second-row seats (7-seater version)
Second and third row AC vents
60:40 split seats in the second row with recline function
50:50 split seats in the third row (7-seater version)
Front armrest with storage for the driver
Type-A and fast charging Type-C ports at the front
Fast charging Type-C, Type-A ports in the second row
Height-adjustable headrests
LED projector headlights, LED tail lamps
LED daytime running lights (DRLs)
Illuminated MG logo at the front
18-inch alloy wheels
Roof rails

Exclusive

Rs 22 lakh

In addition to Excite

360-degree camera with Transparent Chassis view
Rain-sensing wipers
Ambient lighting (blue colour only)
Panoramic sunroof
Ventilated seats at the front
50W wireless charger with cooling
Chrome-finish on select exterior trims
Automatic headlights
Powered tailgate

Essence

Rs 23 lakh-23.5 lakh

In addition to Exclusive

Level 2 ADAS
Adaptive cruise control
Front parking sensors
Auto-dimming IRVM
Memory function for the driver’s seat
Rear window sunshade
15.6-inch touchscreen
10-speaker Infinity sound system
Multi-colour ambient lights (256 colours)
Rear parcel tray (5-seater version only)
Vehicle to load (V2L), vehicle to vehicle (V2V) charging support
Vehicle to home (V2H) charging support
Red-coloured brake callipers

Which variant of the MG Hector Tomahawk EV should you buy?

The mid-spec Exclusive trim, priced at Rs 22 lakh, ex-showroom, is the one we recommend for the MG Hector Tomahawk EV. Compared to the base Excite, it adds front ventilated seats, a 50W wireless charger with cooling and a powered tailgate, features that should appeal to buyers of such an EV. With the BaaS option, the upfront cost can be reduced by Rs 6.1 lakh (as on August 26, 2026), making for a significant initial saving. Buyers who want the five-seat version will have to choose the top-spec Essence trim, as it is the only one available with this seating configuration.

What’s good is that there is no difference in performance or range across the lineup. All trims use the same 69.2kWh battery pack and 204hp electric motor, while the MIDC-rated range remains identical at 517km.

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KTM is bringing Dakar Champion Matthias Walkner to India

Posted on August 26, 2026August 26, 2026 by admin

Official KTM poster showing the details of the event.

If you’ve been looking to start exploring trails near you or improve your off-road riding, you now have the opportunity to be trained by 2018 Dakar champion and four-time Dakar Stage Winner Matthias Walkner. KTM is bringing Matthias to India to mentor their Adventure Rally Extreme events in Mumbai and Bengaluru, slated to happen in September.

Face to face meeting in Mumbai on September 11; in Bengaluru on September 15
Ride and train in Mumbai on September 12-13; in Bengaluru on September 16-17
Ride and train event limited to KTM owners only

Two events over three days

Registrations open now

There are two separate events requiring separate registrations, a face to face meeting and a ride and train event. During the face to face event, riders will have the opportunity to meet and interact with Matthias as well as a photo opportunity. Registration to this is open to everybody and costs Rs 500.

The ride and train event on the other hand, is far more hands-on, or hands and feet on, if you will. Riders will get to ride and train alongside Matthias and train on off-roading skills through practical drills and real rally techniques. This event has two batches over two days, and registration is exclusive to KTM owners for Rs 5,000.

The events are slated to happen back-to-back in Mumbai from September 11-13 and in Bengaluru from September 15-17. Further details and registration(s) are available on KTM India’s website now.

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Bajaj to launch six more motorcycles before festive season

Posted on August 26, 2026August 26, 2026 by admin

Front left outside image of the Pulsar NS200

Bajaj has been having an eventful August with four launches, the freshly updated Pulsar 125/150 and the new Pulsar N160 S and SS. Seems like they aren’t planning to slow down any time soon. The company has said two of the 10 models would be all-new Pulsars, while the rest would comprise new variants and product upgrades. “Our 150 and 125 are the second launch in this journey,” said Sumeet Narang, President, Marketing, Bajaj Auto. “We will meet you soon again. There’s a lot of stuff that we will still be coming up with in the coming days.”

Bajaj Pulsar was the third best-selling motorcycle range in July 2026
After original and N Pulsars, NS line is expected to be updated
Bajaj dual-sport and Triumph Bonneville 400 will also arrive soon

Pulsar portfolio takes shape

All models are expected to get updates

The launch comes as the Pulsar nameplate remains one of India’s largest-selling motorcycle ranges. It ranked third in the July motorcycle sales chart with 66,156 units dispatched, according to AutoPunditz. Bajaj’s sports motorcycle segment, meanwhile, grew about 50% year on year in the April-June quarter, with Pulsar, Avenger and Dominar recording double-digit growth.

The company has also said upgrades are planned across its 125-160cc motorcycle range. Narang said the refreshed range will be organised around the three Pulsar platforms. “Three very clear distinct platforms, the original, the N and the NS,” he said, with each aimed at a different customer and riding use case.

Triumph Bonneville 400 and Bajaj’s first dual-sport also in the works

Bajaj is also looking to expand manufacturing capacity

We had just reported that Bajaj’s first dual-sport motorcycle was spotted testing again. Our reports indicate that the motorcycle will launch in Brazil before the end of this year, making its way to India at a later time. Currently, it’s unclear if Bajaj is counting that as a part of this 10-Model portfolio. Besides that, Bajaj is also expected to launch the Triumph Bonneville 400, long awaited retro cousin of the existing Triumph 400s.
Speaking of which, the launches come ahead of Bajaj’s planned expansion of annual manufacturing capacity from about 72 lakh vehicles to more than 90 lakh. The company has said the additional capacity will support growing demand across the board. It is evaluating brownfield expansion and a greenfield facility, with the location and investment yet to be finalised. The company has not yet declared any dispatch dates, but clearly they’re looking at a packed schedule inching closer to the festive season.

With inputs from Stephen Raj Antony.

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MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV launched at Rs 25.69 lakh

Posted on August 26, 2026August 26, 2026 by admin

JSW MG Motor India has launched the Hector Tomahawk PHEV at a price of Rs 25.69 lakh (ex-showroom) alongside the all-electric version of this brand-new SUV. This becomes the first mainstream plug-in hybrid SUV in our market. It is powered by a 1.5-litre, naturally aspirated petrol engine paired to a 20.5kWh battery for a claimed fuel economy of around 40kpl and an electric-only range of over 115km. MG claims that the Hector Tomahawk can deliver over 1100km of range with a full tank of fuel and a fully charged battery. Bookings for the Tomahawk PHEV have commenced today and deliveries will begin in November this year.

Unlike the Hector Tomahawk EV that’s available in both 5- and 7-seater configurations, the PHEV is only available in a 7-seater configuration. MG is also offering the Tomahawk PHEV under the BaaS program, where prices start from Rs 21.79 lakh and Rs 3.20 is charged additionally on the battery rental.